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Sex Facts Contraception
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Effectiveness Over 99%. Less than 1 woman in 100 will get pregnant.
How it works A small plastic device that releases the hormone progestogen into the body - prevents sperm meeting an egg.
Advantages Works for 5 years but can be taken out at any time. Periods will be much lighter and usually less painful. You don't have to think about contraception for as long as the IUS is in place - on removal fertility returns to normal.
Disadvantages Irregular light bleeding between periods is common for the first 3 months. Temporary side effects such as headaches, spotty skin, breast tenderness. Very small chance of infection in first 3 weeks.



 
Effectiveness Around 99%. Less than 1 to 2 women in 100 will get pregnant in a year.
How it works A small plastic and copper device is put into the womb. It stops sperm meeting an egg or implanting in the womb.
Advantages Works as soon as it is put in. Can stay in 3 to 10 years depending on type - but can be removed at any time. You don't have to think about contraception for as long as the IUD is in place - on removal fertility returns to normal.
Disadvantages May not be suitable for women at risk of getting STI's. Periods may be heavier or longer and more painful. Very small chance of getting an infection in the first 3 weeks.